What Should Truckers Include in Their Emergency Kit?

Because of its sheer size and central location, the state of Texas sees a lot of truckers on its roadways. According to KHOU11, for example, roughly 2,500 18-wheelers pass through a single weigh station in San Antonio every single day.

Unfortunately, the prevalence of big rigs on Texas highways means the state also sees a lot of catastrophic truck accidents. Sometimes, these collisions are the result of poor road conditions or malfunctioning vehicles, but in many other cases, driver error is to blame.

Since virtually anything can happen on the road, truckers need to prepare for all eventualities. This includes maintaining a fully stocked emergency kit and storing it in their cab. It is wise for passenger vehicle motorists to make an emergency kit, as well, and keep it in their trunk in the event of a wreck.

If you were hurt in a crash with an 18-wheeler, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. To determine if you have grounds for a claim, turn to the Cooper Law Firm.

Attorney N. Eric Cooper is a truck accident attorney in Texas who helps victims of personal injury fight for the compensation they deserve. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free case evaluation.

What Kinds of Items Should Truckers Include in Their Emergency Kit?

Veteran truckers who have seen it all probably have a fairly good idea of what they should include in their emergency kit. The following lists may be handy for newer commercial drivers, though, as well as for passenger vehicle motorists who pride themselves on always being prepared.

When putting together an emergency kit, day cab truck drivers who make it home every night should include:

• One gallon of potable water;
• Enough nonperishable food for two to three days;
• An active credit card;
• A motor carriers’ road atlas;
• A small first aid kit;
• Pepper spray;
• Cash;
• A cell phone charger;
• Spare clothing;
• Blankets; and
• Up-to-date emergency contact information.

Regional and long-haul truckers should include all of the above in their emergency kits, as well as:

• Additional water and food;
• Standard toiletries;
• Cooking utensils;
• A flashlight and extra batteries;
• A basic tool kit;
• A CB radio;
• A national truck stop directory;
• A water filter;
• Waterproof matches and emergency candles;
• Additional seasonal clothing; and
• A more comprehensive first aid kit.

Passenger vehicle motorists do not have to stock up on all of the above items, but at the end of the day, anyone who hits the road can end up in an emergency situation. Foul weather, catastrophic collisions, acts of terrorism, and infrastructure failures can all make road conditions incredibly dangerous for all drivers, commercial or otherwise.

Although you can reduce the risk of getting stuck in foul weather by checking the forecast and staying home when necessary, other scenarios are out of your control. If you sustained injuries in a wreck that was not your fault, contact the Cooper Law Firm today.

Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation with a truck accident lawyer in Texas. You can learn more about car crash claims in Texas by visiting the USAttorneys website.